Troublesome Creek 85-3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Troublesome Creek 85-3 is a vital earth dam located in Audubon, Iowa, designed by the USDA NRCS to serve as a grade stabilization structure on the Tr- Nishnabotna River E.
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Summary
Completed in 1999, this dam stands at a height of 39 feet and spans 700 feet, providing essential flood risk reduction and grade stabilization benefits to the area. With a storage capacity of 149 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, Troublesome Creek 85-3 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding community from potential risks.
Managed and funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Troublesome Creek 85-3 operates with an uncontrolled spillway system and outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," highlighting the need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures. The structure's strategic location in Brayton, Iowa, underlines its importance in maintaining water resource integrity and facilitating effective flood control efforts in the region, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Nishnabotna River E |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
149 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Troublesome Creek 85-3